At Fox Service Company, we know how the confluence of indoor allergies like dander and mold and seasonal allergies like pollen can make some nights unbearable. It’s tough to keep allergens in check during peak allergy season, but it’s critical to a good night’s sleep.
We work with our Austin-area clients to minimize the allergens in their homes so they can breathe and sleep easier indoors. Learn more about our recommendations for keeping allergens at bay.
Common Causes of Bedroom Allergies
Bedroom allergies are another term for indoor allergies, such as dust, dander, and mold spores. Regularly cleaning your space and monitoring humidity levels can help prevent a buildup of indoor allergens in your home.
However, when plants bloom or foliage dies back in the fall, seasonal outdoor allergies can exacerbate indoor allergens. One study shows roughly a quarter of US adults have seasonal allergies. Outdoor allergens can enter your home on your clothing, through open doors or windows, on your pets, or even through your HVAC system.
Read more: How to Improve Indoor Air Quality by Breaking the Bank[1]
How to Sleep Better with Allergies
If your allergies just won’t let you get to sleep at night, try these tips to fight allergens and catch some shut-eye.
- Dust your room regularly—Bedrooms are known for gathering dust because we spend a lot of time in them. However, there’s generally little airflow or ventilation, making them a haven for dander, hair, fur, and more. During allergy season, try to dust your room once a week to keep dust levels low.
- Use your HVAC system to filter the air – Replace your HVAC’s air filter every one to three months. During peak allergy season, a one-month frequency will maximize air filtration. Check your owner’s manual or contact Allen’s Air Conditioning to see if a HEPA filter is compatible with your system.
- Keep outside clothes out of your room – Individuals with severe allergies should avoid bringing pollen into their bedrooms on their clothes. When you get home, remove your outer clothing at the door and put it straight in the washing machine.
- Wash your hands and body—Pollen and other allergens cover every outdoor surface. Touching things, from the car door handle to the mailbox, will transfer contaminants to your hands and body. Wash your hands as soon as you get home, and avoid touching your mouth, nose, and eyes until your hands are clean. If you’ve been outside for a while, you might want to shower and blow your nose to remove pollen from your hair and skin.
- Try an air purifier – Place a portable air purifier in your room and run it during the day. Look for an air purifier with aHEPA filter to trap small particles like dust and pollen.
Allergies and Sleep: Why It’s So Hard to Get Shut-Eye
You might notice your symptoms are worse when you sleep. Allergies tend to be more severe at night due to the increased exposure to the bedroom allergens we listed above, plus your body’s elevated histamine levels at night. For some individuals, simply lying down can exacerbate symptoms due to airway anatomy.
Does Sleeping with a Humidifier Help Allergies?
Sleeping with a humidifier may alleviate symptoms for some individuals, but it’s far from a universal solution. High humidity levels may worsen allergies, especially for people sensitive to mold and dust.
What Is the Best Temperature and Humidity for Sleeping?
The ideal temperature and humidity for sleeping are 60-67 degrees Fahrenheit and indoor humidity between 30% and 50%. The EPA recommends keeping your home within these ranges while regularly cleaning the house and maintaining the HVAC system. It’s the best way to sleep well despite allergies.
Meet Austin’s Home Energy Efficiency Experts
Our skilled technicians provide expert recommendations, quality repairs, and friendly service. We are committed to keeping our neighbors comfortable throughout the year! For all your home services needs, count on Fox Service Company - we can’t wait to serve you.
Contact us online or call 512-488-1120 to schedule an appointment!